Omie Wise

Like many murder ballads, this song is the true story: that of the murder of Naomi Wise in 1808. This is Doc Watson's version. My friend Alex tells me that the place Adams's Spring (yes, it's a real place) is "hallowed ground" to this day: people pretty much avoid it, certainly don't swim there.

Oh, listen to my story, I'll tell you no lies,
How John Lewis did murder poor little Omie Wise.

He told her to meet him at Adams's Springs.
He promised her money and other fine things.

So, fool-like she met him at Adams's Springs.
No money he brought her nor other fine things.

"Go with me, little Omie, and away we will go.
We'll go and get married and no one will know."

She climbed up behind him and away they did go,
But off to the river where deep waters flow.

"John Lewis, John Lewis, will you tell me your mind?
Do you intend to marry me or leave me behind?"